Speedvision At STAR 1999
MSTA Flashback
SpeedVision and Dave DeSpain atteneded STAR 1999 in Marietta, Ohio. The resulting video was aired as an episode of BikeWeek on SpeedVision. Some of the members in this video are no longer with us, Maverick, Dana and Rock, and the video is a fitting tribute to them depicting there dedication and enthusiasm for the MSTA (formerly HSTA). Bits of the video are inaccuarate, such as the what STAR stands for and outdated, but it give a good overall feel for what the MSTA stands for and what to expect at our AMA Sanctioned events. Sit back, relax and enjoy the video.
Read more: Speedvision At STAR 1999ZERO Motorcycle - Road Test
By Nick Zarras Managing Editor
The changes in technology have constantly evolved in the world. That change has allowed an evolution in the electric motor and battery technology to bring practicality to the electric motorcycle industry. We have seen electric dragsters, plus on and off the road racing bikes, but the most commercial application so far has been in the commuter and dual sport category. A major player in this arena is Zero Motorcycles. Founded in 2006 by former NASA engineer Neal Saiki, Zero has accelerated e-bike technology dramatically. Among its Santa Cruz, CA employees, 34% are R&D engineers. Abe Askenazi, who was the top tech at Buell Motorcycles, has been a key player in upgrading all aspects of product development. From its start in 2009, selling bikes with a 43-mile range and a top speed of 67 mph, Zero in 2013 is producing machines capable of going 137 miles on a charge and accelerating up to 95 mph. These dramatic improvements over a short period of time have been rewarded in the marketplace. Zero has sold roughly 3200 electric motorcycles since 2009. Production has increased to 1000 bikes annually and is expected to double that in 2013.
Paul H. “Van” Van Steelant
Meet Florida State Co-Director Paul H. “Van” Van Steelant
Nicky: What prompted you to join the MSTA and how long have you been in a member?
Paul: I joined in 1987. I responded to an ad in Motorcyclist. I had purchased a left over 1982 CB 900F with the Euro bar and foot-peg kit brand new in 1986, and I was looking for more reasons to ride it. Unfortunately, I had more intentions than money, and I never took advantage of the HSTA until I moved to Connecticut in 1990. I responded to a call from the State Director to ride to his place for lunch, as he had invited all 10 members living in New England at the time! Turns out, he was looking for somebody to take over the reigns! That would have to wait a while!!
Nicky: Tell me about your first bike? What motorcycle do you ride to events now?
Read more: Paul H. “Van” Van Steelant2013 MSTA Raffle
On Wednesday, June 26th, 2013 during the STAR 2013 banquet, we will be drawing the winners of the 2013 MSTA Raffle.
Grand Prize: 2013 Honda NC700X + a $1600.00 Accessory Voucher
Named one of Cycle World’s “10 Best Bikes for 2012” in its first year, the NC700X is an awesome commuter during the week. On the weekend it lets you go exploring in the country, or carve up a twisty canyon road. A wide array of accessories designed specifically for the NC700X is available to help you personalize your adventure and get what you want out of your new ride. Best of all, they feature the same quality and durability you’ve come to expect from Honda.
The winner will also receive a $1600 voucher to outfit their new ride with the accessories of their choice.
Read more: 2013 MSTA Raffle